OUR MISSION
To create a space where professional women can talk through issues, share experiences and ideas, and form lasting connections.
How it all began...
In 2007, the Women’s Exchange of Washtenaw (WXW) was developed for women in business in Southeastern Michigan and the region. WXW fills a unique and shared need as a women’s business group. It’s a collaborative, supportive environment where we can share our struggles and our triumphs.
We seek to end the isolation many women business leaders feel by providing a relaxed and confidential environment where we can help each other and improve our organizations. Additionally, we wish to provide an alternative to standard networking meetings where attendees have no input on the presentation, learn very little, and make few decent connections.
How is WXW different?
INTERACTIVE – We’ve all attended too many events where a speaker or panel talks at the audience. WXW promises that event attendees will actually talk through specific issues, share stories and struggles, and work together to find solutions.
OPEN – At WXW events, attendees choose the direction and content of the conversation. Questions, issues, ideas – all are encouraged in an open and confidential environment.
FUN – As working women with hectic lives, we may often feel overwhelmed or isolated. WXW is a place where we can have FUN, connect, laugh, talk through issues, and be ourselves.
WXW Board of Directors
Aleia MacDonald, President
Certified Financial Planner, Advanced Wealth Strategies
As a passionate entrepreneur and seasoned financial expert, I specialize in guiding ambitious families towards realizing their dreams of financial independence and crafting an extraordinary retirement. With a firm belief in the transformative power of strategic planning, I am dedicated to turning aspirations into tangible realities. With over two decades of hands-on experience in the financial industry and holding the prestigious CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation, I have committed myself to assisting business owners, couples, and families in navigating the complexities of retirement planning, business succession, and wealth management. Beyond my professional endeavors, my heart lies with my cherished family. Alongside my husband, Ryan, and our two energetic boys, Makai and Jace, we call Ann Arbor home. We relish spending quality time together outdoors, whether exploring new destinations or simply soaking up the warmth of the sun. Our shared love for travel and creating lasting memories fuels our adventures, both near and far. In addition to prioritizing family, I am deeply passionate about giving back to the community. My philanthropic efforts are centered around supporting youth empowerment initiatives and combatting hunger, with the belief that investing in future leaders and alleviating societal challenges can spark positive change.
Erica Powers, Vice President
Mortgage Banker, First Merchants Bank
Erica has been assisting clients locally in Michigan and across the country with their mortgage needs for over 15 years. As a Certified Divorce Lending Professional, (CDLP®) and Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist, (CMPS®), Erica has been trained to help divorcing homeowners make a more informed decision regarding their home equity solutions and the divorce team identify any potential conflicts between the divorce settlement, the mortgage, and the real property. Erica is passionate about providing her clients with amazing service and all the information needed to achieve their goals and select the best option for their family.Erica believes communication is very important to creating a seamless and easy process so she is always available for her clients and will work with you every step of the way from initial application to closing. Erica can offer a variety of loan programs to her clients: Conventional, FHA, VA, Jumbo, Construction and Portfolio products. Whether you are purchasing a new home or refinancing your current home she is excited to help you along your journey. Erica lives in Northville, MI with her husband Dan and son Connor. You can find them at the farmers market most weekends.
Michelle Galbraith, Secretary
VP, People & Business Development, Yeo & Yeo HR Advisory Solutions (Amy Cell Talent)
Michelle Galbraith is a seasoned HR professional passionate about driving positive change through recruitment, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, and community partnerships. As the People & Business Development, VP at Amy Cell Talent, Michelle enhances staff engagement, guides career transitions, and boosts HR expertise and brand recognition. Her HR journey includes recruitment experience at Unilever and serving as an admissions officer at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business. Michelle is a champion for empowering young adults from diverse backgrounds and connecting them to employers through her commitment to SummerWorks in Washtenaw County. She's a driving force behind positive HR transformation, emphasizing leadership and personal growth. In her free time, she enjoys visiting Lake Michigan and cherishes moments with her daughters and family. Michelle's work shapes individuals and organizations, all in pursuit of a brighter and more inclusive future!
Bridget Robinson, Treasurer
Life, Health & Medicare Insurance Sales Agent, Kemner Iott Benz | Cobb-Hall | Mahar | Spaulding Insurance
Bridget Robinson is an Insurance agent providing an array of coverage to families and businesses for over 20 years, protecting them from financial loss. Bridget got her start in the Industry as a personal lines insurance agent helping individuals and families with their auto, home, and recreational vehicle insurance needs. After well over a decade as a personal lines agent, she then went on to get her Life and Health Insurance License as well as her Medicare Certification. Bridget now specializes in helping Michigan Businesses with their employee benefits and helping Medicare Recipients understand the coverage available to them and placing them into a plan best suited to their needs. Bridget enjoys giving back to her community. She has been a member of Zonta of Lenawee since 2008 currently serving her local club as well and Serving as Area 4 Director on the Zonta International District 15 Board. Zonta International envisions a world in which women’s rights are recognized as human rights and every woman is able to achieve her full potential. When Bridget is not working or volunteering you can find her with her family spending time on the ski slopes, the rivers, or the beaches in northern Michigan.
Jill Villemure, Sponsorship Co-Chair
Account Executive, Kemner Iott Benz
As an insurance agent, Jill enjoys helping clients protect their assets by providing accurate coverage with a competitive rate for their insurance needs. She works hand and hand with several A+ rated companies to ensure that her clients are placed with the company for their unique situations. With over 10 years of experience, Jill specializes in auto, homeowners, renters, vacant property, personal umbrella and Life Insurance. When Jill isn’t busy working, she spends her time with her husband and their little girls. As soon as it's nice out you can often find them camping, biking, or taking walks in their neighborhood.
Jennie Behm, Sponsorship Co-Chair
Associate Financial Advisor, Evangelista & Associates
As finances are integral to the complexities of significant wealth, I work closely with clients to identify ways to connect their finances to their lives through a dedicated planning approach. Following an in- depth profile and thorough analysis, I provide each client with a wealth management plan that is comprehensive of their unique lifestyle needs and cash-flow requirements. Detailed, proactive, and goal oriented, I identify key strategies, products, and services that allow clients to achieve their desired financial goals. I enjoy providing clients with a deeply personalized service experience grounded in professionalism, warmth, and care. With roots in the Midwest, I graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing. I was honored to pitch in the BIG 10 as part of the MSU softball team. A travel enthusiast at heart, I have lived in many of the largest cities across the country. My husband Dave and I enjoy being active in our community, traveling to new places, pursuing interests in outdoor activities, and spending time with our two children.
Amy Webb, Events Co-Chair
Business Analyst and Realtor, Spatially Yours Real Estate
Amy Webb is a business analyst working as a Realtor with Keller Williams in her hometown of Ann Arbor. Amy holds an M.S. From SUNY Buffalo NY in Geology and has enjoyed staying connected to this academic pursuit in the roles of adjunct faculty at Washtenaw Community College and Senior Business Analyst in the Office of Campus Sustainability at the University of Michigan. Amy fearlessly embraces the hustle, believes in going the extra mile, building meaningful relationships, delving deep into the details and embracing the joy of the journey. Amy hopes to inspire others to follow their passions, embrace challenges, and create meaningful change in their lives. Amy lives in Ann Arbor, MI with her two boys, two cats and dog. Amy loves spending time in her garden, enjoying the abundant and diverse outdoor opportunities of Michigan, traveling to new places, reading lots of books and sharing experiences and time with her friends.
Courtney Mills, Events Co-Chair
Enrollment Management, Eastern Michigan University
Courtney Mills works in Enrollment Management at Eastern Michigan University, and is a dedicated advocate for education and community service. A lifelong learner, she holds a Master’s in Public Administration from EMU and proudly calls Pittsfield Township home, where she serves as a newly elected Trustee. Passionate about giving back, Mills has chaired the Washtenaw County Walk to End Alzheimer’s for the past two years and has volunteered in various roles on local political campaigns. Her work reflects a deep commitment to education, public service, and fostering connections within her community. A believer in overcoming the odds, in her free time, she is an aspiring marathon runner and completed her first half marathon this past October at the Probility Ann Arbor Marathon.
Haley Billey, Marketing Co-Chair
Associate Director for Student & Community Engagement, Business+Impact, University of Michigan Ross School of Business
Haley leads the advancement of Business+Impact’s engagement with students, faculty, staff, and partners across multiple schools and colleges through the development and implementation of programming and events related to community impact & service, including the Board Fellowship Program, Summer Internships and Programming, Social Entrepreneurship competitions, and the Social Innovation Speaker Series. She is the primary lead for the schools' engagement with nonprofit organizations and small businesses in Southeast Michigan. Haley earned her B.A. in International Relations and Communication Studies from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, and her M.A. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Michigan. Haley lives in Pinckney, MI with her husband Graham. She enjoys the outdoors, animals, world travel, and spending time with family and friends over a meal.
Liz Garza, Marketing Co-Chair
Account Executive, Adams Outdoor Advertising
I enjoy providing results for business through billboards. We can make you a celebrity overnight. I enjoy using my skills to contribute to the community on a professional and volunteer level. I graduated from Concordia University where I played basketball. I am a member of the marketing team at the Ann Arbor Ypsilanti Chamber where I also serve as an ambassador. I am a member of the United Way of Washtenaw Emerging Philanthropists group. In addition, I am an ambassador at the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber. I am inspired daily by my husband and daughter. In my free time I like to bike, bake and spend time with my family and friends.
Joni Woods, Forum25 Co-Chair
Relationship and Communication Coach, Journey Coaching
As a coach, Joni believes that successful relationships are built on a foundation of open communication, empathy, and self-awareness. Her coaching philosophy is centered around empowering individuals to cultivate meaningful connections by understanding themselves and others on a deeper level. Joni is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those she coaches. Whether through individual sessions, group workshops, or speaking engagements, Joni remains committed to fostering healthier, happier, and more connected communities!
Jessie Schlanderer, Forum25 Co-Chair
Portfolio Implementation Lead & Wealth Advisor, Stephens Wealth Management Group
Jessie is a Wealth Advisor and Portfolio Implementation Lead with Stephens Wealth Management Group (SWMG). She utilizes her analytical background to oversee trading and model portfolios for the team, in addition to helping her clients envision and achieve their financial goals by providing an approachable strategy to holistic wealth management. She has nearly a decade of experience as a Financial Advisor and completed Level I of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) Program in 2019. She has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Michigan in Actuarial Mathematics and Mathematics of Finance and Risk Management. Originally from Dexter, Jessie currently lives in Brighton with her dog, Memphis. In her free time, she enjoys playing golf, crafting, and spending time with family. She loves to go Up North and to travel whenever possible. She can often be found in a hockey rink or at Michigan sports games.
Megan Mazurek, Past President
Realtor, Reinhart Realtors
Megan Mazurek is a residential Realtor with Reinhart Realtors, specializing in the greater Ann Arbor region for over a decade. She graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in digital and traditional marketing and previously worked for the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Regional Chamber of Commerce. As a lifelong resident of the Ann Arbor area, Megan is passionate about engaging with and giving back to her community. In addition to her role with WXW, Megan has served in various leadership and volunteer positions United Way of Washtenaw County, Ele's Place, Neutral Zone, and AAACF. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors and Girls Group. In her spare time, you can find Megan and her husband Kyle cheering on the Michigan Football, Basketball and Hockey teams, enjoying a beer flight or eating pizza with ranch dressing.
We would also like to thank WXW's Founders!
What do you want the world to know about WXW?
Hear from 7 women.
Moniba Gobba, Health & Wellness Coach
Margaret Loy, Print Tech, Inc.
Tina Heusel, United Way of Washtenaw
Leigh Sutter, R. J. Conlin
Lauren Dreffs, R. J. Conlin
Laura Fudge, Fudge Beauty LLC
Alison Todak, Cahoots
Testimonials
“I would not miss it. I always feel so empowered, when I leave.”
Kacie Eberenze
“Being a solo practitioner can also be a little bit of a lonely business lifestyle. But through WXW, I’ve met a lot of others in my same shoes, and the events cover such a broad variety of topics that I feel like I’m always adding something new to my problem solving toolkit, for both myself and my clients.”
Carole Baker
“I have been able to catalyze, nurture and develop countless valuable relationships through my involvement with this dynamic organization. Many of these relationships have blossomed into actual, paying business — icing on the cake of the friendships and associations I treasure.”
Eleni Kelakos
“I have come to know amazing women from a wide array of professions that I know I can call upon for support, advice or just to have good time. WXW can be a catalyst for change for you too.”
Breeda Miller
“Each [WXW event] unquestionably leaves me feeling energized and inspired in a way that feels almost like having a really great hangout with a bunch of your smartest and most kindred girlfriends — you know, the kind who know what they want and aren’t afraid to go after it, and will love you and support you while giving you the kick in the pants that you didn’t even know you needed.”
Samantha West
“I LOVE to refer women to the WXW because of their deep understanding of how to make it work for women in this county and this state. The energy of WXW is strongly positive! No memberships are required, just your heart that’s open to meeting & helping others as well as yourself.”
Deb Nystrom
“WXW is an amazing connector of dots for me, and for my business. I’ve met amazing women who inspire me and who push me to new and greater things. I’ve connected up with businesses that have helped my business grow, and I’ve found just the right people to refer others when I need to.”
Megan Torrance
“I love being in a WXW event filled with motivated women from all backgrounds and professions who inspire and challenge me further. WXW is different from other organization events, as its allows me to be honest and open about topics experienced by women in the workplace. Confidentiality is a given.”
Praveena Jayabal Ramaswami
“I frequently refer to WXW as 'my tribe' because of the support and friendship. Attending a WXW event inspires my enthusiasm and I take a fresh energy back to my workplace.”
Jackie Jenkins